UOC Protodeacon Pepper-Sprayed and Injured in Ribs During Mobilization

KREMENCHUK, UKRAINE — Protodeacon Viktor Dudnichenko of the Holy Dormition Cathedral of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) in Kremenchuk was forcibly mobilized on September 21, 2026, and later transferred to a military unit in the Chernihiv region, according to the Kremenchuk Diocese. The diocese said it has since lost contact with the cleric.

According to the diocesan account, Dudnichenko was detained near his home and forcibly taken into a vehicle. The diocese said tear gas was sprayed in his face and that his chest was compressed while he was being placed on a bus, resulting in injuries to his ribs.

The Kremenchuk Diocese further reported that during his time at a Territorial Recruitment Center and while undergoing a military medical examination, Dudnichenko complained of pain in his ribs and heart area but received no response. His mobile phone was also reportedly confiscated, preventing him from contacting relatives or a lawyer.

On September 23, the protodeacon was taken to a military unit in the Chernihiv region, where he remains according to the latest report.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a UOC hieromonk was taken by recruitment officers on his birthday.